About the Forum

Life Writers Forum Mission
The Life Writers Forum exists to foster discussion of all aspects of life writing across the spectrum of age,
gender, nationality, and areas of interest. Any life writer is welcome to join.

Life Writers Forum Values
We believe group discussion broadens viewpoints,
builds skills and keeps people abreast of new information and ideas.
We believe mutual support, kindness, acceptance, and positive,
uplifting feedback brings out the best in writers.
We believe that members will participate with respect and appreciation for the viewpoints of others. Life Writing Defined
Life writing is loosely
defined as creative non-fiction taking diverse forms such as essay,
vignettes, journals, family history, or literary
memoir. Occasionally fiction closely based on life experience is
included in this category. Participation requirements
There are no
requirements for participation. Lurkers are welcome on the Forum, though
we eagerly hope that newcomers will jump in with a self-introduction
and join the conversation.

Forum History
Forum co-founders and hosts Jerry Waxlerand Sharon Lippincott found each others blogs in 2007 and recognized a shared passion for helping others learn about writing memoir along with a dearth of opportunity for life writers of any stripe to freely interact on the Internet. To fill this gap, they co-founded the Forum in June 2008 using the easily accessible platform of YahooGroups because it offers unbeatable flexibility and ease of participation. By the end of 2009, the Forum passed the 100 member mark, and continues to grow at a healthy pace.